About the Program

Charged with implementing this initiative, the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services (DWS) has partnered with the Arkansas Workforce Investment Board, Arkansas State University - Newport and Arkansas' trucking industry. The objective of this public-private partnership is to train 300 Arkansas residents to become truck drivers and subsequently assist them in obtaining employment, at a self-sufficient wage, with an Arkansas trucking company.

Training is taking place through a four-week program at Arkansas State University - Newport.

ELIGIBILITY

― Be at least 21 years of age.
― Be a citizen of the United States or eligible to work in the United States.
― Be a resident of the state of Arkansas.
― Have a valid Arkansas driver's license.
― Be registered as a job seeker with an Arkansas Workforce Center.
― Complete the KeyTrain® instruction at an Arkansas Workforce Center.
― Complete the JOBehaviors™ Long Haul Truck Driver aptitude assessment.
― Pass a criminal background check, a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) physical, a drug screening, and have a good driving record.
― Be available for, and have transportation to, a four-week program of training at Arkansas State University - Newport.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

STEP ONE
― Go to your nearest Arkansas Workforce Center. (Click here to find the location nearest you.) Tell the staff you are there to apply for the Truck Driver Training Pilot Initiative and ask for an application kit.
― Complete the Workforce Center Registration form and register as a job seeker.
― While there, take the KeyTrain instruction and secure a copy of your KeyTrain® Student Status Report.
― Before leaving, be sure you have your Workforce Center Registration Form, your KeyTrain® Student Status Report and the application kit.

STEP TWO
― Mail the following to the Trucking Industry Coordinator at the address below. Use the postage paid envelope provided with your application kit.
• Completed Workforce Center Registration form
• Copy of your KeyTrain Student Status Report
• Copy of your Arkansas driver's® license
• Copy of your birth certificate
• Signed Applicant Certification and Release form
• Signed Tuition Reimbursement Agreement
• Mail to: Trucking Industry Coordinator
Arkansas Trucking Association
P.O. Box 3476
Little Rock, AR 72203

STEP THREE
― In order to complete your application, you must complete the JOBehaviors™ Long Haul Truck Driver aptitude assessment. Your results will automatically be sent to the Trucking Industry Coordinator and will be matched with your application. Click here to begin the assessment now.

WHAT TO EXPECT

• All applicants will receive notice relative to their status within 60 days of application.
• If you are selected for training, your tuition will be paid. If you live more than 50 miles away from the training institution, your room and board may also be paid. (Meals up to $35 per day.)
• During training, you will need to pay $50 for a CDL test packet. Upon completion, you will be responsible for the additional cost of the CDL licensing fee.
• During training, you will have the opportunity to take the WorkKeys® assessment and earn an Arkansas Career Readiness Certificate in order to further enhance your employability.
• All participants must agree to become employed with a participating employer within 90 days of graduation and remain employed with a residence in Arkansas for at least 12 months from the date of original employment. First year wages will exceed $35,000.

Click here for more information.